Skip to content

Employment Quote by Claire Messud

“I want to make a difference. But get a job? I worry that will make the ordinary, like everybody else.” quote by Claire Messud
Download Open image
““I want to make a difference. But get a job? I worry that will make the ordinary, like everybody else.””

Claire Messud

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Guardian, 2015

Desire to impact clashes with fear of conformity, questioning career choices.

In simple terms: Wanting impact vs fear of being ordinary.

Key Takeaway

Balance purpose with practical steps.

Themes

identity career purpose conformity

Mood

anxious hopeful

Type

motivational reflective

When to use this quote

  • job search
  • volunteer work
  • creative projects
  • networking

Key Concepts

existentialism self‑actualization

Questions to Reflect On

  • What defines “ordinary” for you?
  • How can you make a difference within a conventional role?
A Different Perspective

Ordinary work can still be meaningful; impact isn’t limited to novelty.

3.2 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Claire Messud

Explore all 249 Claire Messud quotes

More Employment quotes

Browse all 1,829 Employment quotes